New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll was straightforward when discussing the backup plans for left tackle Andrew Thomas, who underwent season-ending Lisfranc surgery after Week 6. “You can’t replace an Andrew Thomas,” he stated, and so far, that sentiment has been validated. The Giants initially placed backup left tackle Joshua Ezeudu in Thomas’ role, aiming to avoid significant changes to the offensive line. However, during Week 7’s 28-3 defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles, the Giants’ quarterbacks were sacked eight times.

While other options exist, they are not particularly promising. The team could shift right tackle Jermaine Eluemunor to the left side, promoting first-round pick Evan Neal back into a starting position he lost due to injury and inconsistency. Another alternative is veteran tackle Chris Hubbard, whom they signed before the Week 7 loss, but the Giants seem reluctant to pursue either of these paths.

Consequently, the team has explored the free agent market for additional help on the offensive line. According to Adam Schefter, the Giants hosted veteran offensive tackle D.J. Humphries for a workout. Although he’s recovering from a torn ACL, Humphries is the most skilled tackle available in free agency. A former first-round pick from 2015, he has spent his entire eight-year career with the Arizona Cardinals, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2021. While his performance has dipped to average in recent years, if the Giants believe he can regain a semblance of his former self in the upcoming weeks, they may extend an offer. The current offensive line situation is dire, and the main concern is Humphries’ knee, as he had surgery in January.

Unlike Hubbard, Eluemunor, and Neal—who are viewed as the next candidates for the left tackle position—Humphries has primarily played left tackle throughout his career. If he is healthy enough to compete, signing him would be an obvious choice for the Giants. Quality offensive linemen rarely stay on the market this long, and given the team’s struggles, taking a chance on a proven and talented tackle seems to be the most reasonable decision for New York.